Today, I am featuring a chat with Susan Kropp, the owner of Chirps & Cheers in Edmond, OK. She recently returned from the National Stationery Show in New York City & she talked to me about many "chirps" and "cheers" from the show. Enjoy!

I understand that you recently returned from the National Stationery Show in New York City. Did this year’s show have a theme?

The tagline used to promote the show was “write on.” Clearly this is what everyone in the stationery industry hopes people will do. While instant communication, like email and texts, have their place, there’s nothing better than a handwritten note, a thoughtful card or a beautiful invitation… something that will last and can be saved. Cards, especially those that are letterpressed, are mini works of art and are not only fridge worthy but frame worthy. The USPS unveiled their new butterfly stamp series at the show. This 64 cent stamp will work on oversized or irregular shaped cards. Many designers will add a butterfly to the corner of the envelope indicating that the card will require this type of postage. I think this is just one example of how the industry is working across the board to keep the art of letter writing alive.

Did you enjoy the show?

Paper is to me what chocolate is to others so I was in heaven. Two days was definitely not enough as I want to read all the greeting cards, look through all the albums and take in all the booth designs. I realized I either have to be more efficient or stay longer. I will definitely forgo efficiency in this instance and opt to stay longer next year. Not only are there hundreds of booths but there are seminars and classes as well.

Did you pick a favorite vendor?

That’s like picking a favorite child. There are just so many that I love. Luckily I have lots of love to give and will continue to add more lines to the shop. It was a treat to meet a few of my favorites like afavorite designs and Spark Letterpress love. The design work coming from both of these shops is so clever and fun. I am excited about the things we will be getting in from Rifle Paper Co., Byrd and Bleecker, Chewing the Cud ,Wiley Valentine and several more.

Usually trade shows forecast retail trends. What trends to you see in our near future?

There were lots of animals. With four dogs at home, I am a sucker for anything with an animal. Birds have been big but we will be getting in some things with other critters as well.

Did you meet or see anyone influential in the design world?

I probably swooned a little too much when I met the head of russell + hazel. Everyone knows I have been obsessed with this line for years so meeting Chris Plantan was great fun. Not only is Chris a talented designer and business woman but she is a really nice person. We went to a bridal seminar and heard Darcy Miller, the editor of Martha Stewart Weddings, speak. We also met the charming French artist, Izak, who did all the hip and fun illustrations for Byrd and Bleecker’s new paper line. He’s done illustrations for big names like Henri Bendel too. While these are just a few of the big names, all the artists are worthy of being recognized. It is such a joy to talk to these people who LOVE what they do.

What did you order for Chirps and Cheers that you can’t wait to put on the shelves?

Oh my goodness….I can’t wait for it all to come. Besides a smattering of great cards and boxed notes and a few more albums, we will be getting some fun office boxes, computer bags, handmade wooden recipe boxes, durable canvas totes, initial sachets, eco-friendly fabric wraps that make great scarves, and oh so much more.

Stop by to grab a clever Father's Day card and say hi to Susan for me-

Chirps & Cheers
100 North Broadway, suite 106
Edmond, OK 73034
(405) 509-6336